Good day all,

At this moment of my life I find myself oddly content. I am alone, a state I did not anticipate thus was not prepared for... but have adjusted to. I know I must make the effort to reach out to my community and I'm almost at that point. School is a challenge, but I am not overwhelmed. I am S-L-O-W-L-Y rebuilding a social network... part of which is web based. Who said you can't teach an old woman new tricks?!? I know this moment won't last. I know the voices of the tasks ignored will soon demand my attention. I know that who and what I am at my core will demand to explore and grow. But for this absolutely wonderful moment in time,

I AM CONTENT

I spent last Sunday at Universal Studios and had a wonderful time. Weather was colder than normal, mid 50s with a brisk wind that kept most of the locals home (short lines!) I met the real star of Men in Black, Frank the Pug, saw all the shows, did only a single roller coaster (vertigo was so bad it took almost 10 minutes for me to be comfortably stable on my feet) and just drank in the scenery and attention to detail in the architecture and exhibits. Oh and I had Irish stew at Finnighan's, delicious! I want to go back and spend a day on the other side at the adventure park. I know I won't ride most of the rides but I love all the detail added to areas where folks have to wait in line, plus the shows and Mythes, voted best theme restaurant 4 years in a row. Can you guess I'm all about the show!?!

This was a 4 day week for us. My part was ready but my printing was late. We are behind and my middlings are fighting me as I try to move us ahead. I was able to move several of my most capable students into advanced classes. That is going to kill my class GPA, but I cannot in good conscience hold them just to boost my numbers. A harder decision was to move 2 of my Spanish speakers along. Both youngsters provided essential interpreter services to others in that class. Moving them puts 2 other students at a HUGE disadvantage, exacerbated by the fact that the administration has done away with my ESOL aide. But again, I could not justify holding them back. It is unfair to hold them back, yet I know I am unable to replace the assistance they offered to generously to the other students. This was a hard one.

My alter is clean, but that darn candle on the right side keeps tilting inward... wonder what I'm missing... or is a leaning candle just a leaning candle? I'm still unfocused and drifting, but I have faith that the universe will eventually wash me up on the proper shore. What can I say... I am content!

Another pleasant moment, I went into the store last Monday (to help with a 187box shipment) after being gone since the 23rd, almost a full month.  And they were glad to see me!  Felt really good.  One gal was supposed to leave just after Christmas, but family issues kept her here.  She was so glad to see me, gave me such a big hug.  I never knew she felt that strongly.  I treat everyone with kindness and respect.  I try VERY hard to stay clear of the drama.  I tell EVERYONE when the store looks good or when we move a lot of stock or just that I enjoyed working with them.  Apparently my 3 to 5 hours week mean more than I thought.  Know what dear friends, last weekend was a good weekend. No wonder I'm so content.

Have a wonderful weekend where ever you are.

be well dear friends